Alessandra Rampolla
Alessandra Rampolla | |
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| Born | March 25, 1974 San Juan, Puerto Rico |
| Nationality | Puerto Rican |
| Alma mater | United States International University |
| Occupation |
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| Known for | Married at First Sight Australia (MAFS) |
| Spouse(s) | John Hernández (m. 2007–2011) |
| Parents |
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Alessandra Mariam Rampolla (b. March 25, 1974, San Juan, Puerto Rico) is a Puerto Rican clinical sexologist, media personality[1] and author[2] best known as the intimacy expert on Married at First Sight Australia (MAFS) since Season 8 (2021). She also hosts radio shows, has appeared on television programs across Latin America and the USA, and is the author of five bestselling books.[3][4]
Early life and education
Born to Ginette Saavedra Boneta and José Rampolla Navarro, Rampolla was raised in a strict Catholic household. She initially studied French Literature at Loyola University New Orleans before earning a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy from United States International University (USIU). She then pursued doctoral-level studies at the Institute for Advanced Study of Human Sexuality in San Francisco, earning degrees in sexual education, clinical sexology, erotology, STI prevention, and restructuring of sexual behaviors.[5]
Career
Clinical practice & media
Rampolla began her career counseling individuals, families, and children in Puerto Rico and the United States. She made her television debut in Puerto Rico with a Univisión segment, later hosting and appearing on programs such as School for Husbands (Emmy-nominated across Latin America), Sex Hospital (UK), and as a regular guest on Dr Phil. She also hosts her own radio show and writes for publications like Primera Hora, Caras, La República (Peru), and Hogar (Ecuador).
Authorship
Her first book, Sexo: ¿Y ahora qué hago?, was released in 2006, followed by La diosa erótica (2008), Sexo: ¿Y ahora qué digo? (2011), Juntos y revueltos... ¿Para siempre? (2012), and Alessandra te lo cuenta todo (2017).
Television and public profile
In 2020, she hosted the Argentine TV show Cuestión de peso before being invited to join the MAFS Australia expert panel in 2021. On the show, she works alongside John Aiken and Mel Schilling to advise couples on intimacy and relationship dynamics.[6]
Health and public engagement
Open about her personal health journey, Rampolla underwent gastric bypass surgery in 2008, leading to a 60 kg weight loss for health reasons tied to future pregnancy considerations. She has candidly shared her experiences with reconstructive procedures and body image.[7]
Selected filmography & media
- School for Husbands (2001–)
- Dr Phil (guest)
- Sex Hospital (UK)
- El Host (2018)
- Married at First Sight Australia (Expert, since 2021)
Reputation and public image
Celebrated for more than two decades of expertise in sexology, Rampolla emphasizes the role of sexual compatibility in sustaining healthy romantic relationships. Her media presence boasts an Instagram following of over 800k, where she regularly posts educational content, lifestyle insights, and glimpses of her personal life including her beloved dog, Lola.[8]
Recognition
- Holder of advanced degrees in therapy and sexual health
- Host of internationally syndicated TV and radio shows
- Author of five bestselling books
- Recognized as a leading voice in contemporary sexology and relationship coaching
- Integral member of the MAFS Australia expert panel since Season 8
Personal life
Rampolla was previously married to businessman John Hernandez from 2007 to 2011. The marriage ended amicably, with differences in future plans cited as the reason. She has reflected that her personal experiences with marriage and divorce enhance her professional insight into relationship challenges. As of early 2025, she is single.[9]
References
- ↑ "Alessandra Rampolla - IMDb". IMDb. Retrieved 15 July 2025.
- ↑ "Alessandra Rampolla – Author Page". Amazon. Retrieved 15 July 2025.
- ↑ "MAFS Expert Alessandra Rampolla's Facts: Age, Qualifications & Husband". Capital FM. Retrieved 15 July 2025.
- ↑ "MAFS Australia's Alessandra Rampolla: age, weight loss, books and more". Heatworld. Retrieved 15 July 2025.
- ↑ "MAFS' Alessandra Rampolla shows off amazing weight loss transformation". Hello! Magazine. Retrieved 15 July 2025.
- ↑ "Who are the MAFS Australia experts? Meet Alessandra Rampolla, John Aiken and Mel Schilling". NationalWorld. Retrieved 15 July 2025.
- ↑ "MAFS' Alessandra Rampolla reveals incredible transformation after surgery". Yahoo Lifestyle Australia. Retrieved 15 July 2025.
- ↑ "MAFS sexologist Alessandra Rampolla opens up about divorce and becoming an expert". Yahoo Lifestyle Australia. Retrieved 15 July 2025.
- ↑ "Who is MAFS Australia expert Alessandra Rampolla?". Heart Radio. Retrieved 15 July 2025.